Sulu | Things to explore in BARMM’s Last Frontier
Malingkat Kaw, Sulu! Being one of the most challenging provinces that I have been to, Sulu proved me wrong. This archipelagic province is just a hidden paradise ready to be discovered. With its pristine white sand shores and delicious local food, Sulu is more than meets the eye. Here are some of the things I did when I visited my 59th province in my personal quest for #Project82PH!
Read also: Sulu Travel Guide
Places to See and Things to Do in Sulu
JOLO
Port of Jolo
The Port of Jolo is the main gateway to the province of Sulu. It mainly services routes to and from Zamboanga, Tawi-Tawi (starting April 2024), and Sandakan, Malaysia. This is also the biggest port on the island.
I Love Sulu Sign
Before entering the capitol compound, you will be welcomed by the “I Love Sulu” sign which has become a popular tourist spot on its own. This is a prelude to a more beautiful surprise inside the capitol compound.
Sulu Provincial Capitol
The striking facade of the Sulu Provincial Capitol is one of the most beautiful I have seen in my travels around the Philippines. Its mosque-like design signifies the province’s devotion to the Islamic faith. This is also the seat of government of the province.
National Museum – Sulu
Right beside the Sulu Provincial Capitol is the National Museum – Sulu. It houses artifacts found within the archipelago and how Sulu came to be. From different textiles to different ancient tools and instruments, the museum also offers a glimpse of the former sultanate’s history.
Masjid Tulay
Masjid Tulay in downtown Jolo is the biggest mosque in all of Sulu province. Its simple and minimalist design makes it standout from the busy streets of Jolo.
Simply Joy Souvenir Shop
Simply Joy Souvenir Shop is one of the few souvenir shops in downtown Jolo. It offers keychains, local food, and other merchandise for tourists visiting Sulu.
INDANAN
Camp Bud Datu
Located inside a military camp, the Bud Datu Viewdeck has one of the nicest views of Jolo, Sulu. With its 180-degree view of the capital town, you get to see the bustling vibes of Sulu. You also get to see a nice view of the Sulu Sea from afar.
PARANG
Mang Sali Beach
One of the popular beach destinations in Parang, Sulu is Mang Sali Beach Resort. It rose to popularity because of its unique stilt cottages and its pristine, clear waters especially on a fine day. It is one of the most instagram-worthy places in Sulu.
Tanduh Beach
Sulu will never be Sulu if you have not visited the equally famous Tanduh Beach. This shoreline is just beside Mang Sali Beach Resort and offers an equally beautiful view of the white sand of Parang, Sulu. You also have to take a photo of its famous coconut tree with the Tanduh Beach signage.
Hablon Livelihood Center
Hablon Livelihood Center in Parang is one of the few livelihood centers that give livelihood to the locals through weaving. “Pissiyabit” as it is locally called, these weaved materials can take months to make and it symbolizes the rich culture of the Tausug people – through colorful patterns and designs.
MAIMBUNG
Maimbung Mosque (Golden Mosque)
The Maimbung Mosque aka Golden Mosque of Maimbung is one of the newest masjids in Sulu. This white-and-gold mosque is more beautiful when you visit it during dusk as its color reflects the sunset.
Tambuang “CongMayor” Falls
One of the attractions in Maimbung is the Tambuang Falls aka “CongMayor” Falls. This miniature falls offers a natural attraction to its locals however this place needs maintenance and must be kept clean for other visitors to see. It is just unfortunate to see a natural tourist attraction just being left to dirt because of its free admission.
PATIKUL
Bud Agad Resort
One of the high-end restaurants and attractions to visit in Sulu is the Bud Agad Resort. This mountaintop resort also offers a panoramic view of Jolo town. It features a restaurant, accommodation huts, and a park with a viewdeck for guests to enjoy.
TALIPAO
Hadji Sitti Raya Masjid
The Hadji Sitti Raya Masjid is the main place of worship in Talipao town. This simple yet eye-catching mosque has noticeable minarets extending from its roof. It also features a garden for people to rest during their leisure time.
OMAR
Sani-Sani Beach (Capual Island)
If you want to experience a secluded beach with pristine white sand and nothing else in between, Sani-Sani Beach in Capual Island is the place for you. Forget about Boracay or Palawan, but this beach is a game-changer. Its peaceful and relaxing vibe is just the perfect combination I need when “beaching.” There are also fresh coconut juices for sale whenever you need one!
Tandang Mairan Rock Formation (Capual Island)
Also located on the other side of Capual Island is the Tandang Mairan Rock Formation. These rock formations by the shore are evidence of nature’s work of art through the years. There are also local monkeys hanging around the area and if you have spare food, you can give them some!
PANAMAO
Bulangsi Beach
Bulangsi Beach is one of the lesser known beaches in Sulu. But to our surprise, this beach is a hidden gem. This quieter side of Panamao is a great place to just relax. It also gives you a good view of Gujangan Island.
Seit Lake
One of the more popular tourist spots in Sulu is Seit Lake. This heart-shaped wonder is also within a military camp and is best viewed when you have an authorized drone. The camp inside also has a view deck for guests to see the beauty of Seit Lake.
Where to Eat in Sulu
Almali Satti Restaurant and Pizza Hub (Jolo)
Almali Satti Restaurant and Pizza Hub is one of the popular restaurants in downtown Jolo. They primarily serve Satti here, which is a famous Tausug dish found throughout the region.
Dennis Coffee Shop (Jolo)
If you have a big appetite for pastries and anything sweet, Dennis Coffee Shop is the place for you. They offer various bangbang sug (different Tausug confectioneries) and you only pay what you eat! They also offer complimentary kahawa sug (Sulu Coffee) for every guest. They are also famous for their native coffee with milk – a bestseller at Dennis’!
Shara’s Cafe (Jolo)
Shara’s Cafe is also a modern restaurant offering Filipino fusion and Tausug dishes. Its alfresco dining setup makes the restaurant vibes more homey. They also served Tiyula Itum here!
Alano’s Grill (Parang)
If you want to have a break before hitting the beaches of Parang, Alano’s Grill is the perfect stop for your hunger. They offer typical Filipino dishes such as pancit, stuffed squid, halo-halo, among others. What I have tried is a famous Indonesian food staple – the Mi Goreng.
*Try Different Tausug Delicacies
Bangbang Sug, Tanduh Beach, Parang, Sulu (L-R) Panggi-Panggi, Putli Mandi, Pitis, Bawlu, Apam
The bangbang sug is a collection of different Tausug delicacies and pastries that everyone must try. When we are spending our time in Tanduh Beach, we got to try some of their specialties:
Bawlu – Tausug egg cake
Apam – Tausug pancake
Panggi-Panggi / Ligut-Ligut – fried swirled dough
Pitis – Sweet, Sticky, Violet in color bangbang sug (Tausug confectionery)
Putli Mandi – glutinous steamed rice cake
Wadjit – tausug version of Biko
Kahawa Sug – Sulu Coffee
Where to Stay in Sulu
Big Bites Hotel and Restaurant
Big Bites Hotel and Restaurant is one of the few accommodation options in Jolo proper. This hotel offers spacious rooms for families, friends, and even couples! It is also conveniently located near the main road of Jolo.
Sample Itinerary when Visiting Sulu
Day 1
JOLO
Port of Jolo
Check-in at Preferred accommodation
Breakfast at Almali Restaurant
I Love Sulu Sign
Sulu Provincial Capitol
National Museum – Sulu
Masjid Tulay
Simply Joy Souvenir Shop
INDANAN
Camp Bud Datu
PARANG
Lunch at Alano’s Grill
Mang Sali Beach
Tanduh Beach
Hablon Livelihood Center
MAIMBUNG
Maimbung Mosque / Golden Mosque
Tambuang “CongMayor” Falls
PATIKUL
Dinner at Bud Agad Resort
Day 2
*Breakfast at Accommodation
TALIPAO
Hadji Sitti Raya Masjid
OMAR
Sani-Sani Beach (Capual Island)
Lunch at Sani-Sani Beach
Tandang Mairan Rock Formation (Capual Island)
PANAMAO
Bulangsi Beach
Seit Lake
JOLO
Snacks at Dennis Coffee Shop
Dinner at Shara’s Cafe
*Note that the places, prices, and information written as of publication date and time are true and are given best during my visit. Changes may occur without prior notice. If you notice any changes to the information given above, you can e-mail me here so we can dish things up!*
We’re born to travel!
About Aldrick 'chiki' Agpaoa
